Mike Dunlap was born on May 27, 1957, in Fairbanks, Alaska. Growing up, he developed a passion for basketball and knew he wanted to pursue a career in coaching. His dedication to the sport would ultimately lead him to great success in the world of basketball.
Dunlap's coaching journey began at Loyola Marymount University in 1980, where he started as an assistant coach. He remained at Loyola Marymount until 1985, honing his coaching skills and learning valuable lessons about the game. After his time at Loyola Marymount, Dunlap went on to hold assistant coaching positions at Iowa and USC, further expanding his knowledge of the sport.
In 1997, Dunlap was named the head coach of Division II Metro State. During his tenure at Metro State, he achieved great success, winning two national championships with the team. His leadership and coaching abilities did not go unnoticed, and in 2006, he was appointed as the head coach of the Adelaide 36ers in Australia, making history as the first coach to hold both an NBA and NBL head coaching position.
Dunlap's success as a head coach continued to grow as he took on new challenges in the basketball world. In 2012, he became the head coach of the Charlotte Bobcats, where he faced both victories and challenges during his time with the team. Despite facing some tough moments, Dunlap's dedication to his players and the game never wavered.
In 2014, Dunlap made the decision to return to Loyola Marymount University, this time as the head coach. His passion for the game and commitment to developing young players made him the perfect fit for the position. Dunlap's return to Loyola Marymount was met with excitement and high expectations from the basketball community.
Off the court, Dunlap is known for his dedication to his family and his love for the game of basketball. His hard work and determination have inspired many aspiring coaches and players to never give up on their dreams.
During his time with the Charlotte Bobcats, Dunlap found himself in the midst of controversy when he had a verbal altercation with player Ben Gordon. The incident drew national attention but did not overshadow Dunlap's accomplishments as a coach.
Mike Dunlap's legacy in the world of basketball is one of passion, determination, and success. His journey from Fairbanks, Alaska, to coaching at the highest levels of the sport is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Dunlap's impact on the game will be felt for years to come, inspiring future generations of coaches and players to reach for their dreams.